Aroldis Chapman with the Red Sox: A New Chapter

Aroldis Chapman is currently with the Red Sox, performing quite well after a couple of lackluster seasons that started during the latter days of his time with the Yankees.

Given the current standings, left-handed pitchers like Chapman could become valuable trade assets, especially if Boston finds itself out of playoff contention.

Before that potential move, though, Chapman has the chance to close the game in what will be his first intense rivalry matchup against the Yankees. He shared on Friday that he has a decent idea of what to expect from the crowd at the stadium this weekend.

“They’re going to boo me,” Chapman remarked through an interpreter ahead of the series opener on Friday night.

When asked if the boos bother him, he responded, “No, it’s not the first time that’s happening.” That’s certainly a fair point; Chapman’s time with the Yankees was anything but smooth, spanning seven tumultuous seasons.

His exit from New York was particularly messy when he dealt with a leg infection after getting a tattoo in mid-August, which was less than ideal timing.

He made a comeback in September but wasn’t included in the ALDS roster after skipping a team workout prior to the series.

“There were a lot of ups and downs,” Chapman reflected. “I’m trying to think about the good moments I’ve had here.”

Among the positives were three All-Star Game selections, though some lows stand out even more vividly, like the memorable walk-off homer by José Altuve in Game 6 of the 2019 ALCS, and Mike Bruso’s decisive homer in the 2020 ALDS against the Rays.

After a stint with the Royals and a mid-season trade to the Rangers that helped Texas clinch the World Series, Chapman, now 37, signed a one-year contract with the Red Sox worth $1.75 million.

As of Friday, he boasted a WHIP of 0.960 over 25 innings and can still reach fastball speeds in the triple digits.

Chapman noted that his fastball speed has improved slightly from last year, but he remains modest, stating, “I just want to keep working hard and help the team win and return to the playoffs.”

With many teams looking for bullpen support in the coming month, Chapman may once again find himself in trade discussions.